Thousands of travelers face summer holiday disruption as Ryanair and easyJet cancel over 400 flights due to French air traffic control (ATC) strikes. The industrial action has grounded flights across Europe, sparking outrage from airlines and passengers alike.
Key Details:
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Ryanair: 170+ cancellations (Thursday–Friday), affecting 30,000+ passengers
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easyJet: 124 flights axed today, 150 more scrapped Friday
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Disrupted routes: Flights to/from France and those overflying French airspace (UK, Spain, Greece, Ireland)
Passenger Rights: Refunds & Rebooking Options
Both airlines have issued guidance for affected travelers:
✔ easyJet: Contacted customers directly, offering free rebooking or full refunds
✔ Ryanair: Disrupted passengers can change flights fee-free or claim refunds
⚠ Advice: Check flight status 24–48 hours before departure for further delays
Airlines Demand EU Action Over “Unacceptable” Strikes
Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary slammed the strikes, calling on EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to reform ATC services:
“European families are held to ransom by French ATC strikes. Canceling overflights makes no sense—it’s unfair to holidaymakers.”
easyJet joined the criticism, urging long-term solutions:
“French ATC is Europe’s biggest delay cause this summer. Passengers deserve protection from repeated strikes.”
Why Are Strikes Causing Widespread Chaos?
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French ATC handles ~50% of EU air traffic, meaning strikes disrupt flights even bypassing France.
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Airlines demand EU-wide ATC staffing guarantees and protection for overflights during national strikes.
What’s Next?
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More delays possible as strikes continue.
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EU pressure grows for ATC reform ahead of peak travel season.
